Hawaii’s knife laws underwent major reforms in 2024 via Act 21 (HB2342), legalizing ownership of switchblades, butterfly knives, and gravity knives after decades of bans. While ownership is broad, concealed carry restrictions persist under Hawaii Revised Statutes (HRS) §§134-51 to 134-53, emphasizing type and visibility.
Recent Changes: Act 21 Impact
Signed May 13, 2024 by Gov. Josh Green, Act 21 repealed prohibitions on manufacturing, selling, transferring, possessing, and transporting switchblades (§134-52), butterfly knives (§134-53), and gravity knives. This followed 9th Circuit rulings like Teter v. Lopez deeming butterfly bans unconstitutional under the Second Amendment.
Concealed carry bans remain misdemeanors; open carry now viable for these types. No blade length limits apply statewide—focus is mechanism and concealment.
Legal Knife Types
Most knives are legal to own:
“Deadly weapons” (solely for injury) face carry limits.
Carry Rules
Open carry: Legal for permitted knives in visible sheaths/belts—no intent to harm required. Standard pockets OK concealed.
Concealed: Prohibited for switchblades, balisongs, daggers; “knowingly” in pocket/bag misdemeanor (30 days/$2,000 fine). Home/business exempt.
No statewide preemption—check counties (e.g., Honolulu stricter). Schools zero-tolerance (§302A-1134.6).
Prohibited Locations
Knives banned: courthouses, airports (TSA checked only), schools, jails, polling places, government buildings. Private property owners decide.
Penalties
Misdemeanor carry: 30 days jail/$2,000 fine; felony if crime-committed (e.g., class C, 5 years). Intent/use escalates.
Practical Advice
Carry standard folders for EDC; sheath autos openly. Tourists: Pack checked, buy locals. Lock home collections. Consult HPD/attorneys; apps track updates.
SOURCES:
- https://www.couteaux-morta.com/en/hawaii-knife-laws/
- https://urbanedc.com/blogs/analog-field-guide/hawaii-knife-laws
